Tomb of Jahangir

The blog is about the Mughal heritage in Lahore which is not being given the right amount of significance. Grand buildings and monuments with a subtle touch of landscaping express the story of a splendid era of true architecture. Some of the monuments and buildings have been ruined or disgraced by a few rulers whereas, others are being destroyed due to lack of maintenance and other environmental issues. This article is bringing into focus the current situation of the great ‘’Tomb of Jahangir’’ situated at Shahdara, Lahore in the garden of DILKUSHA near River Ravi. This monument is one of the most significant art work and is greatly in danger due to many reasons. As it is constructed only ½ km from river Ravi, the water level is a huge threat for the tomb as no there is no proper concern shown by the authority to stop the water. The picture shows the flood water which remained standing for five days in year 1988 and shahdara monuments were greatly damaged. Since then no care is provided. Also the dampness due to water has become the permanent problem and therefore the beautiful stone work is being faded away. The shahdara’s industrial estate lies very near to this tomb and the industrial waste and pollution is also destroying the art and important stones especially ‘sang-e-badal’ and marble, vanishing its beauty. There are no proper security guards and unofficial visitors destroy it all by showing uncivilized behavior. They write on the walls and disposing off the waste where ever they want. Negligence is being shown by the authorities for repairing, and even if they take steps, poor and unskilled staff is sent for the work, therefore repair is done inexpertly and cement is used for the rebuilding its walls which is said to be the worst enemy of historical architecture (Bernard M. Feilden). All these issues are collectively destroying this great and the most historical heritage of Lahore. If it is preserved in a better way it can enhance the grace of city Lahore and will also attract the world giving advantage to the country of Pakistan in return. And also it is the duty and responsibility of all the government as well as people of Lahore to keep the signs of Mughals alive and to show the world; real meaning of MUGHAL ARTCHITECTURE.